Nine Reasons to Dine Al Fresco: Guide to Savannah’s Best Outdoor Dining

Sipping a mimosa on a lazy Sunday morning in the sun. Sharing a fine wine under the stars overlooking the river. Lounging with a book and a latte on a shaded patio. Such are the simple joys of dining al fresco. And all can be found in Savannah.

It’s 98 degrees with a heat index of 105 as I write this, so I may be too late for a post on outdoor dining. Nevertheless, the evenings are still pleasant enough to enjoy the porches and patios of Savannah’s dining scene. And, trust me, all of these places are worth sweating it out if needs must.

Read on for a round-up of the best outdoor dining the city has to offer.

The Perch at Local 11ten – The rooftop deck at Local 11ten, known as The Perch, offers light bites and a specialty cocktail menu. They often feature live music. Stop by for an app before your meal in the full restaurant downstairs or a nightcap afterwards.

The Lost Square – Make your way upstairs at the Alida Hotel to The Lost Square, their rooftop ode to Savannah’s famous public gathering places, for light fare, cool cocktails, and a truly unforgettable view of the city at night.

The Atlantic – Savory aromatics from the smoker waft through the outdoor patio at The Atlantic. Their front patio features small tables, lounge areas, and an outdoor bar with a firepit for evening hangouts.

Moon River Brewing – Stop by the beer garden on a steamy afternoon downtown for refreshing brews and excellent people watching.

Blowin’ Smoke Southern Cantina – Southern barbeque is best eaten outdoors. Blowin’ Smoke has a wide patio and open-air bar to do just that.

El Coyote – The rooftop deck at El Coyote is home to their oyster bar. Catch a sunset and a cool off with a selection of market-fresh oysters, ceviche, or shrimp cocktail.

The Peregrine – Dress it up a little, grab a sophisticated, bubbly cocktail, and enjoy panoramic views of downtown at The Peregrine, a rooftop bar above Perry Lane Hotel.  

The Wyld Dock Bar – Visiting The Wyld feels like taking a vacation from the (still charmingly slow) bustle of downtown Savannah. Make the trek out to Skidaway for dockside dining, lawn games, and a fresh, sea-inspired menu.

Foxy Loxy – Foxy is a Savannah coffee institution, and for good reason. The back patio is a perfect setting for an afternoon catching up with friends, getting work done, or just sipping an iced coffee with your favorite book. They’re dog-friendly too.

Here’s hoping it’s just a hot streak before summer gets into full swing in Savannah. If not, wait for happy hour, grab a cold beverage, load up on the Secret Ultra Strength, and try not to sweat through your linen pants.